Kedarkantha Trek: A Snowy Stairway to the Sky

Some trails make you work for the view, but the Kedarkantha trek gives you one stunning sight after another right from the beginning. Set in the Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand, this winter trek is famous for its snow-covered paths, dense pine forests, and a summit that feels like you're standing at the edge of the world. My experience on this trek was not just about reaching the top—it was about everything the journey taught me along the way.

Starting Point: The Village of Sankri

The trek begins in the charming village of Sankri, which is about a 10-hour drive from Dehradun. Nestled at around 6,400 feet, Sankri is the kind of place that immediately slows you down. With wooden houses, friendly villagers, and views of snow-capped peaks, it feels like a place untouched by time. I arrived in the evening, greeted by a golden sunset and the comforting smell of wood smoke curling out of chimneys.

I spent the night in a homestay, where I met other trekkers from across the country. We shared stories over hot chai and Maggi, layered ourselves in warm clothes, and got ready for what was to come. The sense of community formed instantly, as if we were all part of the same quiet mission to reach the summit.

Into the Forest: Juda Ka Talab

The next morning, we set off on the first leg of the trek—an uphill walk to Juda Ka Talab, a scenic frozen lake nestled at about 9,000 feet. The path wound through thick pine and oak forests, with sunlight pouring in through the canopy in golden shafts. Snow from a recent snowfall clung to the branches, turning the entire trail into a winter wonderland.

Juda Ka Talab was magical. The lake had frozen over, reflecting the white sky like a giant mirror. We camped near the lake, surrounded by trees and silence. That night, as we sat by a small campfire and sipped hot soup, I looked up and saw a sky so full of stars it made you forget the cold. It was one of those rare moments where you feel completely present, grounded in the simplicity of the wild.

Ascent to Kedarkantha Base Camp

The climb from Juda Ka Talab to the Kedarkantha base camp was steeper and more challenging, but incredibly rewarding. The snow was deeper here, and every step felt like sinking into a soft pillow of white. Our guides led us at a steady pace, ensuring we stayed together and hydrated.

As we reached the base camp at around 11,250 feet, the view opened up.

In every direction, there were towering snow-covered peaks—Swargarohini, Bandarpoonch, and Black Peak all stood tall against the horizon. We pitched our tents on a snowy clearing and rested, soaking in the majestic silence of the mountains. The anticipation of the summit push buzzed through the group, but so did the contentment of just being there.

The Summit Push: A 360-Degree Himalayan View

Summit day began early, around 3 AM. With our headlamps on and layers of warm gear, we moved silently through the cold darkness. The trail was steep and icy, zigzagging up the ridge. With each step, the air got thinner, and the excitement grew stronger. Just before sunrise, we reached the Kedarkantha summit at 12,500 feet. What greeted us was nothing short of breathtaking—a 360-degree view of the Garhwal Himalayas bathed in golden morning light. It felt like standing on the rooftop of the world. Everyone cheered, hugged, and took turns simply sitting in silence, trying to absorb the view. In that moment, all the effort, the cold, and the climb felt worth it.

Descending with Full Hearts

Coming down from the summit, we slid through sections of snow, laughed like kids, and moved with light hearts. The descent to Sankri took another two days, with a stopover at Hargaon, a beautiful campsite surrounded by pine trees. Each evening, we’d gather around a fire, reliving summit memories and sharing future trek plans.

By the time we returned to Sankri, our group had transformed from strangers to friends. There was a shared pride in what we had accomplished, and a quiet sadness that it was over. But more than anything, there was gratitude—for the mountain, for the experience, and for each other.

Trek Tips for Future Adventurers

• Best time to visit: December to April for snow.
• Pack thermals, down jackets, and waterproof gloves.
• Don’t skip on quality trekking shoes—snow gaiters are a bonus.
• Carry energy snacks, a refillable water bottle, and personal medication.
• Travel with a certified guide or group for safety.

The Kedarkantha trek is ideal for beginners looking for their first Himalayan snow trek, yet it’s rewarding enough to enchant even seasoned trekkers. It’s not just a journey to a summit—it’s a journey inward, where you meet a quieter, stronger version of yourself under the silent watch of snowy peaks and starry skies.